PHOTOS BY ALEXIS FATALSKY

In a city known for its memory-making skyline view, what’s better than a private front row seat to it?

Given the topography of Pittsburgh, the neighborhoods clinging to the city’s hills are all afforded a unique view of the three rivers and sparkling lights — and this North Side home is designed for enjoying it.

While Kate Kay has been involved at 1400 Sherman Ave. in the Mexican War Streets for years, she always felt the house was not living up to its potential.

Kay, who manages the property for her family’s company, says she saw a vision beyond the basic finishes and quick fixes the home had undergone since it was built in 1890.

“When the chance came to take this house from tired rental to total showstopper, I went for it,” she says. “The renovation had its fair share of curveballs, like pandemic timing and old house surprises, but I was all in. I wanted to create something that honored the history while giving it a bold, modern edge.

“This house was meant to be special — and now it finally is.”

Now that the extensive renovation is complete, the home has been listed by Emily Fraser and her team at Piatt Sotheby’s International Realty for $799,999.

“The home has been fully updated from top to bottom,” says Fraser. “Buyers can truly move in and enjoy from day one.”

Fraser notes the dual-zone HVAC, new appliances and second-floor laundry as some of her favorite functional features — but she also can’t stop talking about the view from the top of the home.

“The rooftop deck is one-of-a-kind in the War Streets — and genuinely breathtaking,” she says. “A spiral staircase leads to a fourth-floor oasis perched above the rooftops of the Central North Side with sweeping, unobstructed views of Downtown Pittsburgh and Mount Washington. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime amenity in this neighborhood.”

As part of the top-to-bottom renovation, Kay and her team reimagined the design of the house to showcase its best qualities. Exposed brick walls and gleaming wood floors greet visitors as they step into the 2,500-square-foot row house.

The first floor’s living room flows into the roomy kitchen and rear dining room. Dark cabinets feel dramatic juxtaposed against white marble countertops and backsplash, and a mix of glass-front and solid cabinet doors provides space for both storage and showing off.

A large island has seating for four, and the flow of this home is perfect for hosting gatherings. A banquette of cabinets and a large pantry across from the island provide more storage and room for serving.

On the second floor, a large bedroom, den and laundry room encompass the entire floor. Original fireplaces and wide-plank wooden floors hint at the age of the home, while bold geometric tile choices and modern fixtures make the space feel fresh and modern. The den could also be used as a bedroom, home gym or office; both the bedroom and den have attached full bathrooms and large closets as well.

The third floor features the primary suite, which includes a luxurious ensuite bath and walk-in closet. There is also a large loft area with an additional bathroom and a spiral staircase that accesses the fourth-floor deck. The bold, fun design choices continue through all four levels of the home.

“This house was designed to be lived in loudly,” says Kay. “The layout just flows.”

She also can’t stop selling the neighborhood — location, location, location.

“I lived in the Mexican War Streets for 14 years, and even though I’m now just over in Manchester, this neighborhood will always feel like home,” she says. “From stoop parties to progressive dinners and the massive annual yard sale, there’s a reason folks find their home and stay in the community.”

Kay adds the Mexican War Streets are some of the most socially charged, tight-knit communities in the city.

“You’re a short walk from museums, parks, Downtown, and some seriously good spots — including my personal fave, The Monterey Pub,” she says.

Over the years, Kay had many moments where she hoped she could help this home truly shine. Now that she’s achieved that goal, she’s excited to see who moves in next.

“This house has serious main-character energy, and watching it come to life has been one of the most fun and fulfilling projects I’ve ever done,” she says. “I’m so ready for someone else to fall in love with it the way I did and throw some killer parties while they’re at it — and please don’t forget to invite me!”

About: Central North Side
Population: 2,951
Planes, Trains & Automobiles: Residents of the Mexican War Streets in Pittsburgh’s Central North Side neighborhood enjoy easy access to all of the city’s main arteries. From this home, residents can also catch regular Pittsburgh Regional Transit buses and can walk or bus to the North Side’s T stops. It’s also a 20-minute drive to the airport via Interstate 376.
Schools: Pittsburgh Public Schools (pghschools.org)
Neighborhood: The Central North Side neighborhood is an extremely walkable and pedestrian-friendly community with abundant restaurants, coffee shops, bars and retail stores. There’s a farmer’s market on Friday nights and regular festivals that bring entertainment and vendors to the community. There are two public elementary schools in the Central North Side neighborhood that residents can walk to as well. Other community destinations include multiple museums, the National Aviary and Randyland.